Solange Knowles Launches Saint Heron  To Archive Rare Books By Black Authors

Solange Knowles has launched a digital archive library that offers borrowers the opportunity to read “primarily rare, out of print, and 1st edition titles by black & brown authors, poets, & artist[s],” through her multidisciplinary institution Saint Heron. The news was shared across the singer’s social media accounts last Friday (Sept. 26), and as of Monday (Sept. 29), every work had been checked out. “the saint heron library is home to our archival collection of primarily rare, out of print, and 1st edition titles by black & brown authors, poets, & artist…and as the as the market and demand for these books, zines, and catalogues rises, we would like to play a small part in creating free access to the expansive range of critical thought and expression by these great mindsss,” detailed the Instagram caption. In the carousel upload, the 39-year-old shared digitized images of offerings from the digital hub. For those who were unable to borrow a book, the caption continued to promise, “see stories to register/ for more infooo and stay tuned for part II. in the coming weekssss According to the official terms on the Saint Heron website, the library is free of charge and operates on an honor-based borrowing system through online registration, and is open exclusively to U.S.-based residents. Each borrower may reserve one book per person, with requests fulfilled on a first-come, first-served basis. Books will be shipped directly to borrowers at no cost and will contain return postage, ensuring the library remains free to readers. To check out a title, users must also list a card to remain on file. As explained, lost or damaged books will be charged at the market value to the borrower. More explicitly, items not renewed (if applicable) or returned after three reminder notices, nor explanation, will be deemed lost and will be subject to charge.

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